Vidic

[1 True Red]

I don't think that's fair at all actually. he is an excellent player but he needs a good covering player alongside him (much like Terry). Usually Ferdinand has been exceptional at that for United and the pairing has been a huge part of their success. All top defenders tend to take advantage of referees unwillingness to punish shirt tugs (Carra certainly does it). Against us Ferdinand reverted to his pre-last year self when he more often used to let his mind wander. His positioning relative to Vidic was shocking (especially when compared to how well Skrtel and Hyypia interacted).

[dww]

I didn't say he wasn't a very good player, just that against the very top teams he is REGULARLY found wanting. He's not the world-class defender we are led to believe IMHO. All defenders make mistakes of course but not time and again in big matches - he's lucky to not get punished more by the ref and strikers missing chances. He's class yes but not world-class, no way.

I really don't remember Vidic regularly being found wanting. I thought United defended excellently against Barca in the CL last year and I'm pretty sure he played then. I really can't think of any other games when he hasn't been coming back from injury when he has been exposed.

I think the points made by others about Evans have some validity but also forget the fact that the whole United approach is based on the best form of defense being attack and fear of attack. There is no reason to assume this will a/ change or b/ stop being effective. If they play as they have been and opposition teams approach the games similarly then I think Evans for Vidic will make little difference. If the defeat knocks United confidence then I think that other teams may be able to take advantage - I think it is unlikely to be enough though.

[Imy]

When he bought Gerrard down he had a handful of Gerrards groin/shorts area, dirty *******.